Cutting instruments are vital in surgery for making precise incisions and shaping tissues. Key types include:

1. Scalpel: A sharp, replaceable blade for initial incisions.
2. Scissors: Includes Mayo scissors for tough tissues, Metzenbaum scissors for delicate tissues, and Iris scissors for intricate cuts.
3. Surgical Knives: Used for specific cuts in delicate surgeries with interchangeable blades for precision.

These instruments help surgeons perform precise cuts while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.